Simulator Practice in the Winter

If you live in a snowy area, winter is time for the golf simulator if you want to continue to play golf. Here we will go over some ways to help your practice translate onto the golf course so that you can start next season positively!

1. Make note of the simulator unit you are using. They are not all created equal. Trackman, Foresight, and Flightscope are all capable of giving you accurate numbers, but may indoor-only units are not as accurate as you would hope. Especially stats related to the clubhead. Do your research as there are way too many out there to note in this blog post.

2. Assuming you are using a top end unit, the ball stats should be pretty accurate, especially with irons & wedges. Use this to dial in your carry distance(not total distance). Carry distance doesn't rely on course conditions and gives you an idea of how far the ball flies. This is the number pros rely on! Ideally you should have a 10-15 yard gaps between your irons & wedges. Consider getting clubs bent strong or weak if you notice any discrepancies. Here are my Carry numbers. I keep them in my phone notes app.

   

3. If you do not have a unit where you trust the numbers, focus on accuracy and ball contact. Odds are you know what a good strike feels like, and most sim units are pretty good about accuracy from a left/right standpoint. The most important thing is getting those reps in so you can keep that motor skill in tune.

4. Work on your swing mechanics. These scores and shots on a simulator do not matter for your handicap or actual golf rounds. Use this time to make your swing more efficient. Use your phone camera to record your swing. Work on those things your instructor mentioned if you have one. Heck, this is a great time to get a lesson so you have something to work on!

5. Make sure you stretch before playing just like you would before a round of real golf. As my chemistry teacher used to say "Practice does not make perfect. Perfect practice makes perfect!" If you are stiff, you wont rotate like normal.